DURAFLY 9499000125-0 Excalibur 1600mm V-Tail Glider Instruction Manual

9499000125-0 Excalibur 1600mm V-Tail Glider
Instruction Manual

WARNING
Read this instruction manual fully so as to become completely familiar with the features of the product before operating. Failure to operate this product correctly could result in damage to the product, personal property and cause serious injury. This is a sophisticated hobby product and is NOT a toy. It must always be operated with caution, common sense, and some basic mechanical ability. This manual provides instructions on the assembly, safe operation and maintenance of this hobby product. It is highly recommended that you read and follow fully the instructions and warnings stated in this manual including safety,  assembly, set-up, and flying guidelines in order to operate this product correctly and avoid damage or serious injury.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

As the user of this product, you and you alone are responsible for operating it in a manner that does not endanger yourself and others around you or result in damage to the product or property of others. This product is operated via a radio-controlled system that in some cases can be subject to interference from sources outside of your control. Interference may result in a momentary loss of control so it is always recommended that this product be used in a suitable open outdoor space.

• This is a radio-controlled flying model and as such must always be flown with caution, this is NOT a toy.
• The H-King J3 Swiss Cub brief was to design a model for low hours to intermediate pilots.
• Always exercise great caution when using the recommended battery to power this product. For full safety notes and operating procedures please read the information provided by your battery supplier.
• Take great care when connecting/disconnecting the battery. Once again see your battery suppliers’ information for the full safety procedures.
• Never power up the model in a confined space and always keep the propeller clear of obstructions, clothing, and parts of your body.
• This product is not a toy, children must be accompanied by an adult at all times when operating this product.
• Only fly this model in an open area away from crowds, people, buildings, trees, power lines, roads, airports, and other obstructions.
• Always put safety first when operating this model and consider the warnings stated above.
• The supplier/manufacturer accepts no responsibility for damage or injury caused through the use of this product. A reminder that it is not suitable for children under the age of 14. THIS IS NOT A TOY.

INTRODUCTION:

Forged by Kings in a distant realm, the legendary Excalibur has proven to be a force to be reckoned with, it is now available in an updated version which includes a brand new eye-catching color scheme, extra carbon, and glass fiber reinforcement, and an improved propeller assembly, the Excalibur V2 has arrived!
The Excalibur V2 is the perfect marriage of modern design and materials, with rock-solid engineering and performance. The entire model features carefully positioned carbon and glass fiber reinforcement throughout, super smooth EPO foam for the lowest drag possible, quick connect PCB wing plugs, efficient ball links on all surfaces, and a simple screw-together assembly.
This is all wrapped up in the sleekest looking hotline to date. The Excalibur’s forward-swept wing and V-tail design coupled with the mighty pre- installed high torque power system impresses at every level.
It is these lasting impressions from which legends are born.
Whether on the slope or at the field, rule the sky with the Durafly Excalibur V2.

FEATURES:

• Wing span: 1600mm(63.5”)
• Length: 1010mm(40.1”)
• Flying weight: 1320g(46.6oz)
• Controls: 4 Channels – Ailerons,Elevator,Rudder (V-Tail),Throttle.
• ESC: Aerostar 60amp Brushless ESC.
• Motor: 3542 800kv Brushless outrunner
• Prop: Aerostar Folding Carbon 13×8
• Battery: 1800-2200mAh, 4S LiPo, 40-65C.
• Radio system: Minimum 4 channel Rx and Tx required with V tail mixing.
• Servos: 4 x 9g high torque.

CONTENT:

REQUIRED TO COMPLETE MODEL:

In its ‘Plug n Fly’ format, the Excalibur V2 will still require some additional electronic components to get it ‘flight ready’. Durafly recommends the products below for optimum performance and great value. Available at Hobbyking.com. If you are viewing this manual online, click

OrangeRx Tx6i 6ch
2.4GHz DSMX
Compatible Radio System
SKU: 9171001330-0| OrangeRx R620X V3
6Ch 2.4GHz DSMX/s
Full Range Receiver
SKU: 9171001391-0| ZIPPY Compact
2200mAh
4s 60c Lipo Pack
SKU: 9067000030-0| Rhino 2200mAh 4S
50C Lipo Battery Pack
w/XT60
SKU: 9952000026-0

FPV CANOPY:

FPV canopy 3D file for printing. Download for free here.

The ‘FPV canopy hatch’ is a free-to-download 3D file of the canopy from the files tab of the listing for those that with to 3D print their own canopy and FPV  the Excalibur V2.

ASSEMBLY (PNF):

1. Out of the box your Excalibur V2 comes with reinforced foam hinges. However before assembly can begin, each hinge line must be flexed back and forth  5-6 times to reduce tension and load on the servo. Do this for all control surfaces before continuing.
   

2. Test and center each tail servo then carefully install each tail half into the housing at the rear of the fuselage. Connect the servos to the extension leads and ensure they are pushed forward into the fuselage when fitting the tail, this is to achieve the perfect fit as shown (A). With the tail now correctly in place,  add the top tail mounting plate and secure using the supplied 2.3x6mm screws (B). Turn the tail over and repeat this process (C). Finally, locate and install the tail servo horns and control rods (D). Do this for all control surfaces before continuing.
   Note:
   – For max strength and security, UHU glue can be used in addition to supplied screws when installing the tail.
   – When connecting ball links, the side with the ring molded on, is the side pressed onto the ball.
   – Use of heat shrink or sticky tape is recommended to keep the extension/servo lead connections secure.
   

3. Center the aileron servos and connect the ball link to the ball end on each control horn. Use the quick keeper to secure the rod to the servo horn as shown (A, B). Screw or unscrew the ball link as required to get the aileron level with the wing trailing edge with the servo centered.
   

4. Push the supplied carbon wing joining spars into the slots of the fuselage (A), the longer one at the front, and the shorter ones at the rear. Ensure the spars do not catch on any wires when passing through the fuselage. Once inserted, ensure both are centered as shown (B).
   

5. Maintaining their aligned position, slide one wing panel onto the spars and into place on the fuselage.
   Handle with care, as you may need a good firm push to get the wing fully into position. Repeat with the remaining panel (A). With both panels firmly in place, secure with four of the 2.5x6mm screws as shown (B).
   

6. Set the aileron servos to neutral and ensure the arms are vertical as shown. Connect the aileron pushrods to the servo arm using the supplied quick-keepers. Adjust the ball link if necessary by turning clockwise, or anti-clockwise, then snap the ball link onto the ball.
   

7. Fit each prop blade to the center-hub using the hexscrews supplied, do not over-tighten, they should be free enough to fold. Assemble the motor adapter, spinner backplate, and center-hub onto the motor shaft. Fit the washer and nut, and tighten the assembly so that it is firmly locked onto the shaft. Attach the spinner using the supplied screw.
   Note:
   – The propeller should be balanced out of the box, however, it is recommended a final balance check be carried out before attaching it to the model. A well- balanced prop will greatly increase all-round performance and efficiency of the model in flight.

8. The final stage of assembly is to install your choice of the 4-6ch receiver, the smaller the better. With all servo leads connected, the receiver can be inserted under the wing leading edge and secured as desired. Your 1800-2200mah 4S lipo is installed as shown below. This is also the best location to achieve the correct CG.

Congratulations,
The basic assembly of your Excalibur V2 is now complete.
Please perform a final check on all screws, bolts, and components, ensuring all are secure and firmly in place.

SETTING UP YOUR MODEL:

1. With your receiver installed and servos plugged into their corresponding channels, connect the flight battery to the ESC to power up the electronics. With the model now armed, ensure all servos are centered and all control surfaces are level. If not, adjust by turning the control clevis by hand accordingly until the control surfaces are level as shown.
   Note:
   For Safely reasons, it is advised that this is done with the prop removed from the model.
   

2. The Excalibur V2 handles exceptionally well in flight, and that’s not down to a good design alone, but a good pre-flight set-up as well. Before you fly your  Excalibur V2, please follow the recommended settings as shown below for optimum handling and performance.
   CONTROL THROWS:
   Elevator ‘low rates’ 6mm ‘high rates’ 10mm in either direction from neutral.
   Rudder ‘low rates’ 6mm ‘high rates’ 12mm in either direction from neutral.
   *Aileron ‘low rates’ 10mm ‘high rates’ 15mm in either direction from neutral.

3. The recommended center gravity (CG) for the Excalibur V2 is approximately 20-25mm from the wing leading edge when measured along with the plastic of the wing fairing at the center. Your Excalibur V2 should balance within this range when using anything from a 1800mAh to a 2200mAh 4S 40-65C LiPo battery when installed directly under the canopy hatch.
   

ADDITIONAL PARTS INCLUDED:

Your Excalibur V2 comes with several additional plastic parts included in the box, ‘Slope nose cone’ and fuselage ‘Crash kit’. Both are detailed below:.

1. In the event of a hard crash or ground loop etc, you may find the ‘fuselage patch kit’ parts helpful if you find any evidence of a split or crack in the foam around the frontal fuselage area. These are designed to act as a temporary fix, however. It’s always best to replace the fuselage entirely, though these should see you through while you wait for the new fuselage to arrive. Using contact type glue (UHU recommended) and following the shape of the fuselage, glue the side panels in place as shown below (A) and leave until the glue has fully cured.
   

2. If you are fortunate enough to have access to a good moderate to strong wind slope site, you will definitely want to slope the Excalibur V2. In fact after you slope soar it you may never want to fly it with power again! To help streamline the Excalibur V2 and turn it into a sloping dream machine, we’ve included a slope nose cone. Simply remove the prop and spinner and position the nose cone over the front of the fuselage and secure in place with some clear tape (A). You can even use your regular powered flight LiPo to run the BEC of the ESC. With assembly and set-up now complete, your Durafly Excalibur V2 should now be ready for flight. However, we recommend your read and follow the advice given in the following pages of this manual before flying your model.
   

ADDITIONAL PARTS INCLUDED:

• Select your flight area carefully. Always choose an open space that is unobstructed from trees and buildings and away from crowded areas. Avoid flying in areas with roads, electric/telephone poles/wires, and water nearby or within close proximity to full-size air traffic.
• Do not fly this model in poor weather. High winds, low visibility, inclement temperatures, rain, and storms are to be avoided.
• Never attempt to catch this model whilst in flight. Even a slow-moving model can cause harm to yourself and others, and risks damage to the model.
• This model is recommended for children no younger than 14 years old. All children, no matter what age, should always be supervised by a capable and responsible adult when operating this model.
• Always unplug your model battery when not in use. Never leave the battery installed in the model.
• Remember to keep clear of the propeller at all times when your flight battery is connected.
• Before flying, always turn on your transmitter first then plug your flight battery into the model.
• After flying, always unplug your flight battery first then turn off your radio transmitter.
• Exercise caution when charging your batteries, and follow in full your battery manufacturers’ safety guidelines when doing so.

PRE-FLIGHT CHECKS

1. Always range check your model before any flight (especially when flying a new model for the first time). Follow your radio manufacturer’s guidelines for performing this check.
2. Check that all screws and mounting points are firmly secured, including control horns, quick-keepers, and ball links.
3. Only fly with fully charged batteries (both in your radio and model). Failure to do so could result in loss of control, damage to the model and/or persons/property around you. Check your batteries are fully charged.
4. With the model powered up (transmitter on first, then receiver/model) check that all surfaces are free from damage/obstructions, moving in the correct directions, and freely with stick input.
5. Inspect the model and prop for any damage that may have occurred during transit and listen for any unusual sounds from the electronics when powered up. If in doubt, do not fly.
6. With the model held securely and the prop free of obstructions, increase the throttle just slightly to confirm the rotation of the prop is correct. The model should want to pull straight forward with the throttle.
7. If this is your first flight with the model double-check that the C/G is in the correct position. If not adjust the battery position inside the model accordingly.
8. If you are an inexperienced model pilot seek the help and assistance of an experienced pilot to perform these final checks and to test fly the model for you.

ADDITIONAL PARTS INCLUDED:

The Durafly Excalibur V2 is both an easy and impressive aircraft to fly and has no special considerations when it comes to flying. But, do make sure you’ve followed the set-up guidelines and recommendations in this manual thoroughly for the best flying experience.
As powered gliders go, the Excalibur V2 is in fact an extremely versatile airframe. Out of the box, you will already have an abundance of climb, maneuverability,  and power on the supplied upgraded13x8 propeller. See the Excalibur V2 really pushes the boundaries as an impressive hot liner! An 1800-2200mah 4S will give flight times from 4 minutes of continual powered flight, or up to 15mins with mixed throttle flying. Mixed throttle flying is really where it’s at with the Excalibur  V2. Full power climbs will get you to the cloud base in seconds, and a quick flick of the sticks have you coming back down again in either a powered or none powered dive, either way, it will be blisteringly fast and rock-solid all the way. Or, remove the prop completely and you’ve got yourself a ready-to-run high energy slope machine with the included optional slope nose cone, the set-up is exactly the same.
When it does come to the time to land, the Excalibur V2 does as all good gliders should and that’s glide. So to bleed speed and reduce height when landing, fly an  ‘S’ type approach or mix flaperons into your model. The Excalibur V2 will remain responsive throughout the speed range, all the way down to the ground. 

EXCALIBUR TIPS:

• For optimum flight performance/model longevity, it is highly recommended that you always fly with a balanced prop. The supplied prop should be balanced,  but it’s always good to check first.
• Keep all leads within the fuselage area as tidy as possible. Tidy wires look better, allow for easier access to all internal components, better battery installation, increased airflow around electronics, and a reduction in potential electronic signal interference (noise).
• Do not leave your model in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time. This will have an adverse effect on the foam surface of the model.
• Set ‘Brake On’ on the ESC if it is not done so already out of the box. The prop will not fold if the brake is not set to ‘On’. To set the brake ‘on’ use the  Durafly or Aerostar programming card (see spare parts listing) or follow the below instructions:

TONES SEQUENCE AND CODE

ENTERING PROGRAMMING MODE X

1. Turn On the transmitter and set the throttle stick to top position (100%)
2. Plug the battery pack into the speed control.
3. Wait 2 seconds, you will hear four groups of 2-beep sets. This is for calibration. After several more seconds, the speed controller will start to cycle through programming menu options.

SELECTING DESIRED VALUE X

The motor emits audible tones in the order and sequence in the chart above. For each option, the tone is repeated 4 times before cycling to the next option. When the desired value tone is audible, move the throttle stick all the way down to select. This will save the setting, exit the programming menu, and arm the motor. To change additional values, enter programming mode through the sequence described above.

Thank you again for purchasing the Durafly Excalibur, we know you’ll enjoy it immensely.
Don’t forget, spare parts are available for this model, please see opposite for details.

SPARE PARTS LISTING:

TROUBLESHOOTING:

Problem

| Cause|

Solution

---|---|---
The motor does not turn| 1. Battery is not fully charged.
2. Transmitter battery low.
3. Motors not connected.
4. The motor is damaged.
5. Receiver is not bound to Tx.
6. ESC in set-up mode.| 1. Charge the batteries.
2. Install a fully charged battery.
3. Check for connection between the ESC and motor.
4. Replace motor.
5. Consult the Radio manual and go through the bind procedure again.
6. Hold model and move throttle to full position then back down to idle.
Model moves backward| 1. Prop installed backward| 1. Swap the props around.
Control s„organic not  moving  with a click input

| 1. The servo lead is connected to Ftx incorrectly.
2. The servo is damaged.| 1. Make sure the servo leads are connected properly.
2. Replace servo.
The model does not fly straight| 1. Control surfaces not centered.
2. CoG is not in the correct position.| 1. Adjust the trims on the transmitter.
2. Re-position lipo as suggested.
Model does not relish well

| 1. The battery is not fully charged.
2. Elevator servo is reversed.
3. CG too far backward.| 1. Charge the battery.
2. Change servo direction via Tx.
3. Move the battery forwards.
Limited Radio Range| 1. Transmitter/Receiver batteries are flat.| 1. charge/replace batteries.

APEX CE SPECIALISTS LIMITED
89 Princess Street, Manchester,
M1 4HT, UK
APEX CE SPECIALISTS LIMITED
Unit 3D North Point House,
North Point Business Park,
New Mallow Road, Cork,
T23 AT2P, Ireland

Made in China

Documents / Resources

| DURAFLY 9499000125-0 Excalibur 1600mm V-Tail Glider [pdf] Instruction Manual
9499000125-0, Excalibur 1600mm V-Tail Glider
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References

• Radio Control Planes, Drones, Cars, FPV, Quadcopters and more - Hobbyking

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